The Government is taking water pollution seriously, and one way we’re doing this is by abolishing Ofwat.
As Shadow Secretary of State for DEFRA, I saw first hand how Ofwat failed – not just on paper, but in practice, whether it was through water bills going through the roof or rivers being polluted with raw sewage without regulation.
As close as home in my own constituency, we’ve seen sewage pumped into our rivers while water bosses pocketed bonuses. There were 632 sewage discharges into waterbodies in Oldham West, Chadderton and Royton from 23 storm overflows last year alone. It’s been clear for a long time: the old way simply isn’t working.
That’s why we welcome the Government’s announcement to bring together all the fragmented regulators, including Ofwat, the Environment Agency, Natural England and the Drinking Water Inspectorate, into one clear, powerful body.
Abolishing Ofwat isn’t about cutting corners – it’s about cutting out a system that has failed.
A single regulator with teeth – backed by real investment, clear leadership and public accountability – will help restore trust in our water system. It means stronger protections for our rivers, lakes, and seas, and greater fairness for families who’ve been paying more for less.
We need a fresh approach, one that puts the public interest first, not the interests of private water companies. Real accountability, real environmental standards, and a regulator that’s fit for purpose. Abolishing Ofwat brings us one step closer to achieving this.
Jim McMahon OBE MP 